A flexible course with no examinations perfect for those starting their careers in the optical world.

Online courseUsing our online learning portal

Course duration1-2 months (depending on module)

Recommended study2-3 hours a week

Study requirementsNo existing qualification required

KnowledgeIncrease your skills and confidence

First class supportTutor support throughout

No examinationsNo examinations to take

CertificateOn completion of each module

Cost

Each unit costs £110 for the first 3 units£80 a unit for each unit after this

Course details

Designed and written by industry experts, each module is ideal for those starting out their career in the optical world. Each module has been designed to be flexible so that it fits around busy work and home lives. You can start at any time of the year and there is no strict weekly timetable, so you can work at your own pace, submitting work when you are ready.

There are no books to buy, no examinations to take and no need for any travel. You are supported by a range of online materials (videos, presentations, multiple choice questions) as well as a printed colour manual and experienced tutor support.

This module covers the different roles within the optical world, as well as the different regulatory, professional and trade bodies. There is an emphasis on the Opticians Act and the functions of the General Optical Council. It therefore gives new starters an overview of ‘who’s who’ & who does what.

Excellent customer service is vital for any business and optics is no different. The module covers different communication methods and techniques to deal with different types of customers, as well as the cornerstones of excellent customer service so that you can learn how to delight your customers.

This module looks at why people need to wear spectacles, reviewing the causes of ametropia before going on to look at the anatomy of the eye and the functions of its different parts. This topic is regularly highlighted as a favourite by learners.

Studying this module you will learn about the different types of spectacle frame materials, their properties, advantages and disadvantages. It also covers the different parts of spectacle frames, such as nose pads and sides, as well as the different types of spectacle frames. Learners will therefore have the knowledge to be able to more accurately identify different materials and discuss the features of different frames with customers.

This module gives learners an overview of the different designs of spectacle lenses, including, single vision, bifocals, trifocals, progressive lenses and the latest occupational lenses. Time is also spent understanding the different types of spectacle lens materials that are available. Learners will therefore be more confident is discussing lens options with customers and be able to advise on different lenses for different situations.

Contact lenses are an essential part of practice revenue, therefore, this module gives learners the fundamental knowledge of the different contact lens types and materials, so that they can deal with basic queries. Time is also spent describing the assessment and aftercare routines, as well as the importance of hygiene and good contact lens care; including the use of different types of cleaning solutions.

Boost your pre-screening confidence with this module. Learners will gain a good level of understanding of the pre-screening process, the different types of pre-screening tests that may occur and more importantly, how to conduct them in a professional manner that ensures high levels of accuracy and reliability in the results. This results in a more confident pre-screener that helps for an effective customer journey.

If you ever wanted to know how to glaze, then this module is for you. The module covers the different stages of the glazing process, including equipment, standards, and the important quality control stage. Covering both plastic and metal glazing, it is an essential introduction to glazing.

It is essential that spectacles fit the wearer properly, therefore, this module covers the stages of assessing the fit of a frame, as well as how to carry out a range of adjustments and common repairs. Full of step-by-step photographs, this module should be considered for everyone in the practice.

This module covers a range of lens tinting methods, as well as polarising lenses, the expanding range of photochromatic options and a review of the different MAR coatings and special filters e.g. for blue light and night driving. The module benefits from a look across optics at a range of different manufacturers.